Sunderland may have been handed a boost as they look to keep hold of Jack Clarke.
Burnley have today confirmed that they have signed Nathan Redmond on a free transfer after they had multiple bids rejected for Clarke.
While the Clarets have landed the 29-year-old, various reports have also heavily linked them with Luca Koleosho, Nathan Tella and Zian Flemming as they look to bolster their attack.
Clarke attracted the interest of Burnley after he bagged 21 goal contributions in the Championship, resulting in Vincent Kompany’s side making three unsuccessful bids for his signature.
The Daily Mail reported that Burnley made a £9 million bid for the winger earlier this month, however they are yet to return with a fourth offer.
Instead, they appear to be looking elsewhere as they secure the signing of Redmond and are closing in on a deal for Koleosho.
The permanent arrival of Tella could potentially end the Clarets’ pursuit of Clarke, with the 24-year-old netting 17 goals whilst on loan at Turf Moor last season.
If the newly promoted club bring in the trio of attackers this summer then it leaves a big money move for the Sunderland man unlikely.
The news could be a huge relief to Tony Mowbray, who is a big fan of the youngster.
Speaking following Clarke’s equaliser against Hull City in April, the Sunderland boss said: “I had a big shout at him at half-time, to be honest, I thought he was really poor for 20 minutes but his reaction was amazing.
“We can’t sit here and question Jack Clarke’s talent, he has double-figure goals now from the left wing and I think probably double-figure assists as well. He’s a great player.”
Jack Clarke’s potential exit would be a disaster for Sunderland
It is understandable for Sunderland to dip their toe into the transfer market to see how much Burnley would cough up for Jack Clarke, however his potential exit would be a disaster if it wasn’t for a huge fee.
The winger was one of the Black Cats’ most important players as they reached the Championship play-offs last season and is likely to play an even bigger role in his second full campaign on Wearside.
If Sunderland were to part ways with Clarke this summer then it would throw a massive spanner in the works for Tony Mowbray, while it would be extremely difficult to replace their star man.